Paducah City Commission Opposes Flying Confederate Flag

The Paducah City Commission disapproves of a local organization’s intention to fly the Confederate flag.

During their weekly meeting yesterday, commissioners passed a resolution opposing the flag, which the Sons of Confederate Veterans plan to install on private land near Exit 16 on Interstate 24. Commissioner Gerald Watkins says the flag once represented an army that fought for slavery, and flying that symbol could send the wrong message to citizens—including visitors that might consider opening or expanding businesses in McCracken County.

“We spend thousands of dollars as a city and a community trying to bring in employment opportunities for people, and I think this flag sends the wrong symbol. It’s offensive, and I think it will make our job much more difficult if that flag goes up.”

In other business, Commissioners also discussed fundraising efforts for a new soccer complex. Private residents have raised more than $184,000 for the facility, but the complex will ultimately cost much more. Watkins suggested selling pieces of excess property already acquired for the project to help garner sufficient funds.